Cleveland Museum of Natural History Unveils New Wing in $150M Transformation Project

CLEVELAND, OH – The Cleveland Museum of Natural History (CMNH) marked a milestone this week by unveiling its new wing, part of an ambitious $150 million transformation project aimed at revolutionizing the visitor experience. This major expansion signals a new era for one of Cleveland’s most iconic institutions, which has been a cornerstone of science education and community engagement for over a century.

State-of-the-Art Galleries and Immersive Experiences

The newly opened wing features cutting-edge galleries and immersive exhibits designed to bring the wonders of science and nature to life. Among the highlights are interactive displays that showcase the latest scientific discoveries, allowing visitors to engage with topics ranging from paleontology to climate science in dynamic, hands-on ways.

Key additions include:

A Vast Fossil Hall: Featuring meticulously restored dinosaur skeletons, including a centerpiece Allosaurus display, paired with digital renderings that illustrate life in prehistoric times.

Living Landscapes: A habitat reconstruction exhibit that blends live flora and fauna with augmented reality to depict ecosystems native to Ohio and beyond.

Interactive Learning Labs: Spaces equipped with virtual reality headsets, 3D printers, and other advanced tools to facilitate workshops and educational programs for students and families.

A Vision for Community Engagement

The transformation of CMNH reflects a broader mission to make science accessible and relevant to all. Dr. Sonia Winner, the museum’s President and CEO, emphasized this during the unveiling event.
“This project is about more than just bricks and mortar,” Winner said. “It’s about creating a space where curiosity is sparked, knowledge is shared, and people of all ages and backgrounds can explore the natural world.”

The design of the new wing incorporates sustainable building practices, aligning with the museum’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Energy-efficient systems, recycled materials, and green spaces are integral to the project, highlighting the museum’s role in promoting conservation and sustainable practices.

A Boost for Cleveland’s Cultural Scene

Local leaders and community members have hailed the museum’s transformation as a boon for Cleveland’s cultural and educational landscape. Mayor Justin Bibb attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and praised the institution for its enduring impact.
“The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is more than a museum—it’s a vital resource for our community, a place where education meets inspiration,” Bibb said.

The new wing is expected to draw thousands of additional visitors annually, providing a boost to the local economy while enriching the city’s cultural offerings.

Upcoming Features

While the new wing is a significant achievement, the museum’s transformation project is far from complete. Future phases include upgrades to existing exhibit spaces, expanded programming, and the creation of additional outdoor learning environments.

Upcoming events celebrating the transformation include special behind-the-scenes tours, lectures by leading scientists, and family-friendly activities designed to showcase the museum’s enhanced capabilities.

Visitor Information

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is open daily, with extended hours on weekends. Tickets are available online or at the door, and discounts are offered for students, seniors, and Cleveland residents.

For more information, visit the museum’s website at cmnh.org.

With its new wing and ongoing improvements, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History reaffirms its place as a leader in science education and a cherished institution in the heart of Northeast Ohio.